Ingredients
Scale
The key to this recipe lies in selecting high-quality, fresh ingredients that bring out the best texture and taste. I’ve always believed that even simple recipes like sugar cookies benefit from real butter and pure vanilla extract—small details that make a big difference. Choosing your favorite jello flavor is a fun way to get creative, and if you prefer, you can substitute with gelatin and your own choice of natural flavorings.
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (3 oz) flavored jello powder (any flavor you love)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional: colored sugar or sprinkles for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, jello powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first helps the jello distribute evenly throughout the dough.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. I find this step crucial—good creaming creates that tender crumb I love.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies soft.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls and roll them in colored sugar or sprinkles if desired. This adds a festive touch, especially if baking with kids.
- Place dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets and gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the tops look slightly cracked. The cookies will be soft when warm but firm up as they cool.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breakage and keeps them tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
